Ultra Sedan

Compare Dealer Clearance Prices and SAVE

Review

1998
Buick
Park Avenue Review

Classy and conservative.

Reviewed by Automotive on
9/11/1998

Overview

In older days, the conservatively minded Buick Park Avenue appealed mainly to an older crowd of buyers. After a complete remodeling in 1997, this full-size sedan now sets its sights on a much wider range of potential drivers. The 1998 Buick Park Avenue boasts a classy, if modest, look. Underneath this sits high-quality engineering and a generally excellent construction that lends it a wonderfully reliable reputation. Available in two models–a basic entry-level trim and the upgraded Ultra–the Buick Park Avenue offers a full load of features and plenty of comfort to keep any demographic of drivers happy.

The Range

What's New

The OnStar Communications System now comes optional on all Park Avenue models for 1998, while new interior and exterior colors also join the lineup. This year’s model also sees the introduction of second-generation airbags, along with exterior mirrors than can be both tilted and folded away.

Exterior

The 1998 Buick Park Avenue cuts a classy, sophisticated silhouette without tacking on any unnecessary embellishments or styling. This sedan looks lovely in its conservative design, ensuring that it will remain a classic for many years. Exterior features for the Park Avenue include 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic on/off headlights, daytime running lights, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, power windows, and a rear window defogger. Chrome wheels and a power moonroof remain optional.

Interior

The 1998 Park Avenue’s cabin feels supremely comfortable and wonderfully spacious; passengers in any seat seem happy to stretch out and enjoy the ride across town. Trunk space also proves generous, with plenty of room for that full set of golf clubs or a few weeks’ worth of luggage for a trip to see the grandkids. Standard interior features include an overhead console, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and power-adjustable front seats, an AM/FM audio system with a CD player, leather seats, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

Performance & Handling

The Park Avenue’s 3.8-liter V-6 engine provides a generous amount of power for this full-size sedan–a necessity for a vehicle of its bulk. Yet even with its large size and weight, the 1998 Buick Park Avenue handles with a fair amount of finesse, along with sturdy steering and reliable control. The ride quality seems a bit float-like, however.